Hakeem Robinson, widely known by his stage name KSOO, has been convicted of first-degree murder following a high-profile trial in Jacksonville, Florida. The rapper, who had gained notoriety not just for his music but for his alleged ties to gang-related violence, was found guilty by a jury after weeks of testimony and evidence presentation.
Prosecutors argued that Robinson played a direct role in the 2020 shooting death of 23-year-old Charles McCormick, also known as Lil Buck, in what authorities described as a gang-motivated killing. Surveillance footage, eyewitness accounts, and key testimony from Robinson’s own father, who agreed to testify against his son as part of a deal with the state, were pivotal in securing the conviction.
The case drew significant public attention not only due to Robinson’s growing fame in the underground rap scene, but also because of how his lyrics and music videos were used as evidence by the prosecution. Investigators pointed to several instances where Robinson allegedly referenced real-life violence in his songs, which they claimed demonstrated knowledge of — and involvement in — the murder.
Throughout the trial, the defense argued that there was insufficient direct evidence linking Robinson to the crime and questioned the credibility of the witnesses, particularly that of his father, who they claimed had motives to protect himself legally. However, the jury ultimately sided with the state’s case, delivering a guilty verdict that now puts the rapper at risk of spending the rest of his life behind bars.
The verdict is a major development in a broader crackdown on gang activity in Jacksonville. Law enforcement officials said the conviction of Robinson sends a message that violent crimes, regardless of notoriety or public image, will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
Sentencing for Robinson is expected in the coming weeks. He faces a mandatory life sentence without the possibility of parole due to the severity of the charge.
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